The X Factor 2 – Top 10 Performance – Recap and Videos

This Thanksgiving theme, with it’s manipulative video packages, and contestants SOBBING THROUGH EVERY FRIGGING PERFORMANCE was total overkill. I’m sorry, I know I was supposed to be like, moved and stuff, but I was more annoyed than anything. The overall affect was mawkish. I was not touched.

First of all, the crying pretty much RUINED the performances. I can’t think of one performance that stood out. Tonight was basically a hot mess of tears and over-sentimentality. No Simon. I did not dig it. And holy cow, can somebody get frigging Khloe Kardashian off my TV stat? She’s HORRIBLE. Her awkward, clueless hosting makes me want to mount a #BRINGBACKSTEVEJONES campaign. I’m not even exaggerating.

Mario is a skilled and professional host, but he has NO chemistry with Khloe. You can almost feel him gritting his teeth standing next to her. She tries WAY too hard. She shouts at people when she asks them questions. When she’s defending the contestants to the judges she comes off like a harpie and phony when she attempts to empathize. Her back stage questions boil down to HOW DO YOU FEEL ARE YOU NERVOUS. What a train wreck.

And the judges panel is tragic. Demi and her petulance is wearing thin. Every time she declares something boring, she comes off like a gum snapping teenager forced to listen to something she doesn’t like. Demi and Britney’s judges reveals their utter lack of musical knowledge. It’s depressing. And Britney’s affect is vacant. Which, is understandable, considering she takes drugs to manage her mood swings. I hope she stays well, but I don’t think this is the job for her.

Having said all that–I’m beginning to enjoy these live shows in a perverse way. It’s like watching a giant trainwreck that can’t be stopped. At this point, I’m hoping the circus gets even crazier and more absurd.

By the way, I don’t think putting Tate first will affect his standing much. Maybe he’ll come in second or third behind Carly Rose and Vino. But I don’t think the Top 3 are going to change this week. We basically know who will make the final. YAWN. However, I would not be surprised if Tate comes in first yet again. I think he’s got a solid fanbase behind him at this point.

The finalists give thanks! Each contestant dedicates a song to somebody they feel thankful for. BUT MAKE NO MISTAKE! THEY ARE STILL COMPETING FOR 5 MILLION DOLLARS. Gee. LA. I’m thankful for YOU. NO.

ARE YOU GUYS EXCITED FOR THANKSGIVING, Khloe-bot asks. This week, once again, two acts will leave the competition. (Didn’t I read on twitter that it was a single elim tonight?)

The Top 10 and their mentors take the stage. We begin with the Over 25s

Tate Stevens – LA Reid – Over 25s – “I’m Already There” by Lonestar – is first – He’s giving thanks to his dad. His dad is also a musician. He gave up music for his family and he still misses it! Dad is so happy that his son gets to return to his dream. During this super-sentimental song, Tate chokes up on the bridge. VOTE BAIT. Britney says, “You’re performances are always so special.” Demi says, “You always do a wonderful job. I feel it wasn’t you best performance, but it was still incredible.” Simon says, “Whether this is the pressure, the emotion, your voice was breaking in parts. It wasn’t confident. Does that mean you’re going home? Not a cat’s chance in hell.” LA says, “I think you sing with a lot of confidence. America loves you.” Khloe didn’t hear any cracks in his voice! It obviously chaps Simon’s ass that this over-the hill country singer is in the lead, and there is nothing he can do about it. I would not be surprised if Tate came in first again, despite singing in the “death spot.” He’s impervious at this point. – Text Vote to 9301 – 1-855-843-9301

Diamond White – Britney Spears – Teens – “Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion = Diamond is giving thanks to her mother. When she was a tot, Diamond used to cry for her dead beat dad. Aw. Bet the Dad shows up now. Mom died on the table during an operation. Eeek. This is nice. She’s singing with a lot of emotion. Unfortunately, when she goes for the big notes, her voice fails her. She doesn’t realize her own limitations. She needs more training and experience. She’s not the next Whitney Houston. LA says, “You’ve had many amazing moments, but you’ve never had a moment like that. You are the truth. We are going to be hearing your name for years to come.” Demi begins crying, “I totally related. You gave you’re heart and soul into it. I’m blown away.” Simon says, “You were both fearless and incredible. You’re singing better than 30 and 40 year olds. I believed every word of that lyric.” Britney says, “It was really beautiful.” – Text Vote to 9302 – 1-855-843-9302

Khloe asks Beatrice about the pressure. ARE YOU NERVOUS BEATRICE? ARE YOU ARE YOU.

Emblem 3 – Simon Cowell – Groups – “Secrets” by One Republic – They want to thank their youth leaders. WHY DO THEY KEEP PLAYING IT LIKE THEY ARE POOR BOYS FROM THE HOOD. Their parents have Hollywood connections! Oh. Two of them went to the Dominican Republic to help out after the hurricane. You can take the douche out of Huntingdon Beach… Interesting that the boys are shifting to pop rock this week. Is this a bid to homogenize their sound for the voters? There is so much reverb on their vocals! Too much. LA says, “For me, your performance lacked emotion.” “I think it was well done.” “I thought it was a great change of pace. I saw more emotion than past shows.” “I wouldn’t listen to the grinch on my right. This is the kind of record you could make.” Uh huh. LA begins arguing with Simon. LA criticizes, but his reasoning makes no sense. He’s so obviously playing the devils advocate on purpose. I have to admit, thought, that performance was totally blandy McBlanderson. The performance was way overproduced. Ugh. Khloe keeps challenging the judges, but she comes off like a loud mouthed nag. “It was really beautiful.” – Text Vote to 9303 – 1-855-843-9303

Arin Ray – Britney Spears – Teens – “Hero” by Enrique Iglesias – Arin gives thanks to his older brother. He was like a dad to Arin after his Dad left the family. Hm. This is pretty boring and charisma free. He’s also flat. Will this be his last week? Maybe so. That little bit of emotion on the last lyric may save him. LA says, “I felt like it was too big. It was a tough one for you. I still don’t think you gave me a 5 mil performance.” Demi says, “I wouldn’t have signed you. I just was so bored.” Simon feels like he’s being trapped in the cage with the songs. Arin agrees. He doesn’t seem to be happy at all. Simon doesn’t think Britney is picking the right songs for him. Arin wants to dance and sing upbeat songs. “It was really beautiful.” – Text Vote to 9304 – 1-855-843-9304

Khloe calls Cher Lloyd “Cheryl”. Lulz.

CeCe Frey – Demi Lovato – Young Adults – “Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler – CeCe is giving thanks to her late sister, Kelsey, who had Cerebral Palsy. Oh look. Her parents are in the audience. After CeCe was crying last week about them not being able to afford travel expenses to LA, I wonder who paid for it? CeCe believes her sister is now her guardian angel. I don’t think CeCe remembers her at all, to be honest, but her parents are kinda breaking my heart. CeCe is woefully off key. She’s actually a little better on the high notes. She’s all wobbly and sad on the last note. SHE CAN’T FINISH. LA says, “Your emotion was so genuine and so real. You’ve come such a long way. You are a champion.” “It’s hard to critique someone when you are pouring your heart out.” “I don’t know how you managed to sing that song. You are a trier. I admire you for that. I really like you.” Demi says, “I’m so proud of you. That was awesome. You really poured your heart and soul into it. CeCe cries through her whole critique. Khloe asks her if she thinks her sister is with her right now. SHUT UP KHLOE. CeCe still comes off as self involved and insincere. Sorry. Not Sorry. – Text Vote to 9305 – 1-855-843-9305

Fifth Harmony – Simon Cowell – Groups – “I’ll Stand By You” by the Pretenders – The girls are thanking all kinds of people. One of them was a premie? Crying crying crying. Whatever. OH HERE COMES THE GOSPEL CHOIR. MORE CRYING. I have to say, that was pretty bland, despite solid vocals here and there. As much as I love the Pretenders, I have grown REALLY TIRED OF THIS SONG. LA says, “It’s hard to critique after so much emotion but…that was great.” Britney says, “What a beautiful rendition of this number.” Demi says, “I wasn’t too crazy about the song choice, but you made it beautiful.” Simon says, “I was crazy about the song choice. Also the performance. It really felt to me that you clicked as a group.” – Text Vote to 9306 – 1-855-843-9306

Khloe informs us that there are tears backstage and she feels tension. Thanks for the bulletin. How do you feel blah blah blah.

Beatrice Miller – Britney Spears – Teens – “Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol – Beatrice is thanking her little sisters. They can’t come out, because the family can’t afford it. Oh, they are coming out this week to surprise her. Aw. Beatrice always sounds just under pitch. This week, her tone is super sobby with emotion. On the second chorus, they break out THE WIND MACHINE. LA says, “You are so cute. I think you are an inspiration to every little girl. Britney you have good taste.” Demi says, “I am getting a little concerned that it’s not progressing. I would really like to hear you do something different and fun.” Simon says, “This song really meant something to you. I preferred this week to last week’s performance. You came off as hipper and younger.” “It was your best vocal so far. MORE CRYING. EVERYBODY IS CRYING. Ergh. Text Vote to 9307 – 1-855-843-9307

Vino Alan – LA Reid – Over 25s – “Proud to be An American” by Lee Greenwood – Vino gives thanks to the military for their sacrifices. Vino seems really sincere as he talks about his respect for soldiers. OMG PULLING THE KRISTY LEE COOK CARD. Now he has to sing it 3 times! The gospel choir is out. I don’t like this song, or him singing it. It just occurred to me that Vino reminds me of Bobcat Goldthwait when he sings. SHAKES THE CLOWN. MORE CRYING. SO MUCH CRYING. Britney says, “It was amazing.” Demi says, “I’ve been really hard on you. I feel like there’s something I haven’t gotten from you. There is something special in you. I think you’re amazing.” Simon says, “Who knew under that hard surface, there was this really soft interior. We could be seeing you at #1 tomorrow” LA says, “I’m really really proud of you. You stand for the troops of America and I stand for you.” Text Vote to 9308 – 1-855-843-9308

Khloe says she’s about to cry like she really means it. Not. Snerk.

Paige Thomas – Demi Lovato – Young Adults – “Everytime” by Britney – Paige is thankful for her mother’s friend who took care of her after her mom died. MORE CRYING. WILL THE CRYING EVER STOP. Sobby, sobby, horrible, off key vocals. I am not enjoying this at all. LA wants to know what Britney thinks first. She says, ‘It was really beautiful.” LA says, “I thought it was really good, I didn’t think it was really good enough to take you out of the 10 spot.” Simon says, “There were moments when you sang it really well. Emotion overtook you. Everyone has delivered strong performances. It could be a tough night for you.” Demi says, “It was pitchy. We did better in rehearsal. That’s OK. This week is all about pouring emotion into the song.” OUCH SHADE FROM HER MENTOR. Khloe’s fakity fake attempt at empathy is really grating. Text Vote to 9309 – 1-855-843-9309

Carly Rose – Britney Spears – Teens – Somewhere Over the Rainbow – Carly thanks her big brother Russ. Carly’s mom had a stroke and Carly had to call 911 on her own. Russ surprises her backstage. One would think Carly would kill on this song, but I’m disappointed. It’s a surprisingly lackluster performance, despite hitting a couple of money notes. She scores points for keeping it professional and NOT sobbing through it. LA says, “You went to two big notes. Your are a force of nature.” Demi says, “I need to see a school ID. LIke you’re an alien. But that’s OK because I like Aliens.” Simon says, “You are the best Alien I’ve ever heard sing in my life.” Simon says he was one of the best versions he’s ever heard of it. Thank God he didn’t say it was the best. Simon picked that song for Katharine McPhee for the Season 5 Top 3. Carly Rose’s rendition was NOT better. “I think you’ve just blown this competition wide open,” says Simon. He’s changed his mind. He thinks Carly will be #1 this week. Text Vote to 9310 – 1-855-843-9310

Founder and editor of mjsbigblog.com, home of the awesomest fan community on the net. I love cheesy singing shows of all kinds, whether reality or scripted.I adore American Idol, but also love The Voice, Glee, X Factor and more!

Simon Cowell’s XFactor Thanksgiving Plans: – Ruin hope and career of at least one contestant tomorrow night – Make Brit, Demi cry/breakdown/go postal – Remind viewing audience that we’re thankful NOT to be related to Kardashians – Show audience that our crazy rude family member is nowhere near as obnoxious as Simon’s arrogant a$$

SapphireBlue9

Oh… I stand corrected— Simon gets to ruin TWO careers and Thanksgivings tomorrow!

FinalFantasy13

is it necessary to play a rascal flatts song in every single one of tates video packages?

Do they not want live shows? I thought that was the highlight of these shows and yet we get 2 double eliminations in a row? WTF are they doing? With the show having 3 finalists it’s going to be over before you blink. Next week they’ll be down to 8 ….. Don’t like all these double eliminations. And airing the snow on Thanksgiving good affect ratings since most folks will have better things to do today and tomorrow than watch Britney tell contestants they’re amazing while Simon picks fake fights

fantoo1

I can already see where this is going…Tate first, Carly last. Manipulation at it’s finest!

And Diamond will be here another week. My momma is cryin’, clapping and actin’ a fool. Shows how an intro package can prop up a performance.

But let’t be honest, that was a good job.

SapphireBlue9

This little Diamond is very good. I always wish these youngins would just wait a few years to let their voices mature. And their personalities mature. She’s a doll though. Too bad her mentor can’t help her with that whole maturity thing.

Diamond likes the diva songs, but she’s still young and tentative in her delivery to do them the full justice they deserve. She’s good but not strong enough. She’ll be better in a couple years. She can go next with the double elimination.

Tired of the sob stories for sympathy votes by the way. Diamond and her mother took it to another level with the she died on operating table part.

SapphireBlue9

I hope more people start using the word goosies in everyday conversation.

kay121

I’m not one to diss on people, but Khloe’s lips are really bothering me tonight. :-|

When I first heard the song choice I was like hmm another ballad gonna be boring but that vocal shined. And she immediately caught my attention w/ her first notes when it was just her and the piano. Loved the simplicity of that. And just her beautiful voice to focus on.

Diamond has a real great voice on her she got a little overpowered in the middle when the backing music picked up but after a while those high notes where pure and powerful.

SapphireBlue9

I’m pretty excited I don’t have to hear Steven Tyler say “beautiful” 3000 times per episode.

The lead singer of Emblem doesnt have enough variety in his voice and he sounds kind of obnoxious. (he’s the one wearing the cap with play on it) The other two should sing more to make them sound more melodic. I didnt even know they had a voice. They helped made that song tolerable. And that’s a great song by Ryan Tedder of One Republic but they didn’t do it justice.

Nasstopher

Emblem3 really delivered tonight. Their best performance yet, IMO.

Nedsdag

I think tonight’s show is to see who will go home because Tate, Emblem3, Carly, and to a lesser extent Fifth Harmony aren’t leaving tomorrow night.

Khloe, please invest in some Spanx.

wordnerdarchie

They thanked man who works with a charity organization – spiritual leader and a camp leader for developing responsible young men.

SapphireBlue9

I think they’re on a special blend of medical marijuana, hair bleach seeped into their heads, with a dose of dumb.

He’s toast. His attitude might of cost him. Although, he has been treading at the bottom for 2 weeks now.

SapphireBlue9

I’m probably in the minority on this but I actually liked Steve Jones… my ex was British and I spent time with his Brit friends here and in London, to me Steve had a very very dry British sense of humor. Maybe not perfect for the US but I wasn’t hating him. And he was pretty lol.

Arin is probably a goner. I did kinda like Diamond. I don’t usually connect with her.

Tera2

When they said Hero I thought Arin was singing Mariah’s “Hero”. Enriques “Hero” is alright and but a more dance song by Enrique would have been better. I thought he did a good job though. A song that is more upbeat like “Amrican boy” that he did couple weeks ago would fit him better. He’s a Pop/R&B singer not a pop-Rock singer. Britney needs to use her head and pick songs that fits. I hope Arin stays around though cause he really has star potential.

Umm No Emblem 3. I’ll give you this they became a tad less douchey when I heard about how one of them went to Hati to rebuild. They really needed that show of humanity and vulnerability after all the cockiness/smugness they’ve shown. But….

The very beginning first few lines was nice and I thought they were gonna have a moment but then that weird lisp came in. And I started to detect a weird vocal inflection in another guy too. And it all started to sound ridiculous and I had to fight chuckling out loud. When singing it sounds like they’re substituting the first letter of practically every word with a W. For example… Tell me what you want from were b/c i’m wonna wive all my wecrets wawaaaaaayyy.

Whatiswrongwithus

There Demi goes again- saying she was bored. Can’t she come up with a better critique? And Britney has replaced her “Amazing” with Steven Tyler’s “beautiful.”

Nedsdag

Here comes the tears.

SapphireBlue9

Make it stop! Make it stop! The sob stories! Bette Midler! Simon Cowell! My T-giving is ruined already! I blame X-Factor!

It was bad from Cece but an improvement from last week. LOL If the judges don’t bash her she’s screwed.

Kitwana

Sob stories are so yesterday. Just sob. It works better in getting votes. Congrats Cece. You’ve raised the bar.

SapphireBlue9

Britney: “It’s like really really hard to critique someone when they’re pouring their heart out like that. I just thought you were amazing.” —> translate. I wanted to critique you but you poured your heart out. And my vocabulary still only goes as far as “amazing”.

FinalFantasy13

it wasn’t good at all but to be fair she was probably off from the start due to the video package.

fantoo1

That was incredible.

Jazz_11

Have my TV mute now. I have no idea what’s going on and why Cece’s crying and I don’t care… But Cece’s so over confidence before, these few weeks you can hardly see it.

Tera2

Cece’s performance was still average even if its one of her better ones. Her vocal delivery and voice would be ok for a beauty pageant or local stage show, but not for a show looking for a recording star. She’s a mediocre singer who doesn’t have a recording voice. I think she can be on Glee as an actress that’s an average singer though.

Jazz_11

It works for most Idol contestants. That’s how they got their votes LOL.

hellomusicgirl

I have so many issues with X Factor right now. What kind of theme is this? Either the judges critique these kids and sound heartless given the “story” they’re singing to or the judges just say oh you’re so brave blah blah blah. It’s a lose-lose situation. Cece just stunk it up big time but how can you call her on that when she’s standing there sobbing?

Khloe is seriously the worst host in the history of hosting worldwide.

And Demi?? What has happened? I liked her so much during the auditions but I can’t stand the continued “I’m bored” critiques. That’s not a critique. That’s a statement on the judge, not the singer.

Umm Cee Cee was off, her lower register was horrible. The higher notes were much better near the end. But the very beginning was bad. How can I describe it she sort of dragged out the notes. It sort of sounded like how a drunk person would sound if they were concentrating on not slurring their words. They felt almost flat and muffled.

I feel for the family and their loss but did not like that performance maybe she just got overwhelmed.

Nedsdag

Khloe, you truly have hit the bottom.

If Simon had any class, he would’ve pushed her off his lap so she would fall on her fat butt.

SapphireBlue9

I’m super bummed, I have to switch to my two “grown up” shows for the hour so I’ll miss the second half of trainwrecks. I look forward to reading about the circus here in real time though… please post if Khlo says something other than “How do you feel….?” or if one of the sob stories is sobless. !

“If you’ve seen one Tate performance, you’ve seen them all. His voice doesn’t provide him with any versatility.”

None of that matters. I really don’t think that Tate will be giving up the top vote getter spot anytime soon. lol

Kitwana

In order of importance, X Factor recipe for contestant success:

1. Backstory involving dead, dying or near dying relatives. 2. Shameless willingness of contestants to trade on personal tragedy/adversity for votes. 3. Look good 4. Be young or look young. 5. Ability to cry on command. .. 100. Be able to sing.

This show is a joke and deserves the sinking ratings it is getting. Please Fox, cancel this show.

kmd23

Khloe is just awful. She is so bad that she is entertaining. I noticed Khloe has her sister Kim and Kanye in the audience to cheer her on. Nothing will help her.

Are Ya’ll grumpy tonight!! I loved Emblem3, why all the hate? They are really good at what they do. Are the One Direction guys great singers? I don’t think so but they have had 2 Platinum Cd’s this year. I enjoy Emblem3.

I feel badly for Arin. Why is he being kneecapped? He is an R&B performer!! Let Arin sign and dance. I hope he survives because I think he will be relevent in the music world.

CeeCee sounded terrible. Yikes

Tate always sounds the same.

Diamond was good but not all that like the judges let on.

jumpstart4u

Khloe is obnoxious beyond words. UGH.

Tera2

Fifth Harmony did a very good job. I’m glad they let Lauren open the song again like she did last week. I like her voice and vocal control. I like Dinah, Lauren and Normani most, but I like all of them as a group. (I’m still trying to learn their names without checking) 5th Harmony are my 3rd favorite behind Arin Ray, and Paige.

Nedsdag

To me, the highlights have been Simon’s gang.

It’ll probably change when the chosen princess (not Beatrice) sings.

fuzzywuzzy

I find that if I watch the X-Factor with the attitude that it’s a joke of a show and a major trainwreck, that it’s way more enjoyable. I’m even starting to be amused by just how bad Khloe is. IOW, I don’t take anything about this show seriously. lol

I was not blown away by Diamond’s performance, but I think it was a quality performance. I am not against Emblem3, but it disturbs me, when tey put so much outside choir singing to chorus by production team, so that it partly becomes production number, not totally their own performance.

fuzzywuzzy

Is anyone else finding this show depressing?

Listening

Umm I’m tired of the fact that fifth Harmony can only do ballads and that most of the time they come off as five soloists, they don’t feel like a group. Finally it sounded like a bunch of noise at the end, they really didn’t need the choir at the end.

wordnerdarchie

I thought Beatrice was terrific tonight. I loved it.

fuzzywuzzy

Khloe is having to resort to crude jokes and comments to try to make an impression. lol

Tera2

The song they picked for Beatrice is good but she still sounds like a young tentative vocalist with a gruff voice. In 3 years she’ll be better and ready but not now. She can leave next with Diamond or Cece.

I can’t blame Arin for his sarcastic “Thank you” to Demi. If the judges are going to be critical, I prefer that they critique the actual performance. If they have a problem with the contestant, I’d rather they bring up the issue in a manner that is constructive and not mean. It was fine for her to say that she was bored, but comments like “If I were a record label, I wouldn’t sign you” is basically telling a contestant to just give up, because they aren’t going to make it. Plus, it’s always odd to hear fellow artists make those kind of comments. It’s a little more acceptable when it comes from someone who is actually a label exec.

Malden

Khloe needs to learn that what NOT to say is just as important as what you do say.

5th Harmony started in a very promising way and their vocals were quite beautiful, but somehow it still fell a little bit flat. And that song has been sung too many times. But I do not think they are in danger.

chillj

I have no truck with performers who use patriotic songs to get through a contest. Cheesy Vino, really cheesy.

Listening

Finally a tender song for Beatrice this totally suites her voice. She started to get off track near the end though and she really sounded her age. Just a kid at a recital. I wished she’d just stuck w/ the tender fragile delicateness and hadn’t tried so many power notes at the end. The wind machine was stupid though.

At the very beginning of the song I was like wow she’s done it she’s saved herself from the bottom 3 definitely from the instant elimination spot but then the second half cut in and messed the moment all up.

Maybe this will be a lesson and wakeup call to Hollywood that the Kardashians are truly talentless and without their mother/agent and totally undeserved status they would be what they should be….nothings!!! Seriously, how did she get this job??? I know the mom p*mps out her kids but she’s painfully miserable. And miserably painful!

I have liked Vino, but this over emphasizing the military has started to bother me.

jewelsceo

My preference to the X factor US is X factor UK & Australia!!!!…anyone??? Simon needs to change the format and get rid of Kloe and Brittany… the new season is not what I thought it would be….boring and dull…

Paige was really really good until the ending of it(due to the emotions)The ending was a disaster.I love how they give her these dark pop songs. Besides Rihanna, she reminds me alot of Natalia Kills.

fuzzywuzzy

Yes, Demi, this week isn’t about singing on key, this week is all about who is the best actor/actress in being OTT emotional over their sob story. That said, Vino wins the night just because of song choice.

Britney Spears are difficult to sing, not vocally, but there is something about them that just feels wrong coming from anybody but her. Even when Kelly Clarkson covered this song, I felt it suited Britney better and we all know Clarkson can sing anything.

fuzzywuzzy

I find Vino’s “hunched over” stage posture kind of amusing. lol

Tera2

Paige’s voice sounded very good on that song. It was going really good in the first half, but she got choked up with tears in between. It would have been her best performance, but it was still good enough. I wish that obnoxious Demi Lovato didn’t cut off her hair like a boy, but she’s still very pretty. Paige had a really cool haircut before. I hope she and Arin ray gets votes cause they have potential to be recording stars.

Its nice she dedicated the song to the woman who took her in. Paige’s story of her mother dieing in car crash is actually sad, and not like those who just wanna fabricate a story for votes.

Carly was amazing! I still think she is the one to beat. Even if Tate somehow makes it to the end, she will garner all the other acts votes to overpower Tate.

iluvai

Yikes. I didn’t like the ending on that. I thought her voice sounded really beautiful in the beginning.

Tera2

Carly is a broadway singer and that song really showcased her. She’s usually too overpraised to me, but this time she actually delivered the song like its supposed too. The song fits her, cause she’s not a pop star.

SapphireBlue9

And maybe she needs that whacko dude Sam whatshisface to come back and crush up her stability meds ‘cuz girlfriend is clearly not right! ps – Brit don’t sue me thanks.

teekee

As great as she is, Carly does nothing for me.

shell29

I can’t get excited about any of these folks or this show. Simon needs to blow this thing up again in the offseason.

Nedsdag

Game over. Carly won.

Back to The Voice.

Nasstopher

WTF!! Did a 13 year old just do that??? If Carly Rose doesn’t get the top spot this week, then something is definitely wrong with the viewers!!!

Cece and Paige should be embarrassed that three 13-year-olds has outperformed them on a regular basis.

Kitwana

So glad to see all the X-Factor contestants step up their games this week. Not their singing game, their crying games. Like I said, sob stories are so yesterday. Just sob. And when sobbing ceases to work, try collapsing dramatically on stage or arrange to have a family member rushed to the hospital to remove a painful hangnail, with the ominous X-Factor music playing in the background.

I am of course the ultimate Beatrice fan, but this far I have felt, she has not been able to deliver her uniqueness in the live shows. Tonight was the first time, when i could see a glimpse of her miraculous potential. To me, her peformance was real, heartfelt and beautiful. Not saying, she could not do better, but anyway, I am so happy for her, that at least to me, it appears, that “she could be coming”.

I think Carly is a better singer, but I like Diamond’s tone more. I just prefer her stage presence over Carly and Beatrice. IMO. Carly is second fave though.

SapphireBlue9

None of these contestants deserve $5mill.

My suggestion to Simon to improve the show’s success: Take that money and divide it up among the viewers who tolerate this junk. Bribery’s always good. Plus there aren’t that many viewers. Some incentive might help expand your audience!

You’re welcome.

chillj

Exactly what I think every time I see her. She screams B_R_O_A_D_W_A_Y!

chillj

I think of him as Quasimodovino! Which sounds like a new imported beverage!

Listening

Carly’s vocals were on point. Her tone is so mature.

Did anyone else notice that last look Carly had at the end of her performance, she like nodded her head w/ a yeah I did it that was real good. It was so cute.

Who still remembers, when Simon was mad in AI season 1, “because there were contestants who were voted through because of wrong reasons”? (sympathy votes). This is his own show. How did he end up to becoming responsible of the sob story show??? Beats me.

Listening

For me Carly and Diamond had the best performances w/ Carly edging Diamond out. Is Carly a bit theatrical at times yes but it worked w/ this performance. The talent in those two is amazing regardless of age. But when you actually take that in consideration it just blows your mind.

girlygirltoo

The song choices are so boring. And what is up with all the crying?

Karen C

But how many times have we seen this and then the wgwg still wins. Not saying he will but I’m not convinced yet.

Diamond has incredible potential. With a little bit of luck with song choices etc) and good instructions, she might still surprise in the future with the miraculously outstanding performance. Whatever happens, she can be grazy good.

alonzo7

All my votes went to Carly tonight-I had to mute all the sob stories-just too much. I don’t usually like Diamond but thought she gave a really good performance tonight. First time I haven’t voted for Tate-he needs some variety in his material. Had to mute CeCe and Paige-think Demi will be without any contestants pretty soon. Picking Arin and Paige to go home with CeCe right in there.

durbesque

13 is the new 16. I’m shocked at how good the show was. I had a feeling that Cece would muck it up, and she did. Vino did not make me cringe, thanks to the hat. You can’t beat ‘Over the Rainbow’. Even Simon has warmed up a bit…amazing.

Karen C

I think Carly is more theatrical, and Diamond would be more of a pop/r&b star.

SapphireBlue9

Just once on any of these singing shows I want one of the judges who’s been around for years (Randy Jackson, Simon, even the 4 at The Voice) to respond to a great performance of a song that’s been sung many times before honestly:”That was excellent. Maybe the third or fourth best I’ve ever heard in all my years of judging.” Each new performance can NOT always be “THE BEST EVER”, nor can each episode be the “MOST exciting or shocking ever”, nor can each new season be the “MOST TALENTED EVER”! They can keep saying it, but it doesn’t make it more true. It does get more annoying though!

I’m looking at you Seacrest, Carson Daly, and Chris Harrison at The Bachelor even though I don’t watch that franchise.

I want Khloe to say “Happy Thanksgiving!” to the person who gets eliminated tomorrow. Now THAT would be cringe-inducingly funny.

Incipit

These comments have to be more entertaining than the show! I haven’t watched any videos yet, but mj, that was a such a good recap – not sure I need to. (but I probably will – with those descriptions. SMH.)

Congrats on making the XFUS built in trainwreck storyline interesting this week – Cowell can’t even do that!

Now I just need to see what that FOX4 reporter from Missouri got out of his (very) brief attempt to get an endorsement for Tate from David Cook on Tuesday, and the evening will be complete. *snerk*

iluvai

Diamond’s performance was the only one that touched me tonight. She was amazing.

Whatiswrongwithus

Yawn…was that it? Ok ok fine… I sorta liked Carly, Emblem3 and maybe Diamond. And to a lesser degree (much lesser), Fifth harmony. But it’s like i have to force myself to like someone from the X factor. lol. No doubt i can tell you now Carly will win. It’s exactly the same manufactured “moments” and pimpish spots that Melanie had last season, that now Carly is getting.

I find myself rooting more for Cassadee Pope than the contestants here on Xf. Shocking. I only started watching the Voice last week. If Cassadee had joined X factor, Simon would have hit gold. That girl is TOTAL pop star package.

I’m hoping either Arin or Beatrice get instant elimination, so we can have an ultimate trainwreck showdown sing off between Cece and Paige. It will make for awesome hilarious television.

SapphireBlue9

If the person who gets eliminated melts down onto the ground (ie Rachel Crow), I wonder if KK will kneel down to comfort them/shove the mike in their face with her “How do you feel?” or will she just shout her questions from her standing position?

Everybody here have said all the essential things about Carly and her performance. What I want to say is: The Wizard Of Oz and this song (when sung well) are like coming from some beautiful other dimension. in them is the heart and the colours, that make things worthwhile. So I am so happy for Carly that she got to sing this song to millions of people. In that way I can see, that this was a rare, precious moment.

You may call it “personality”, but singing off key isn’t an opinion, it’s a fact, and Cece was hardly on key tonight. lol

wordnerdarchie

Incipit, Cook was his usual diplomatic self. They did show Dave’s winning moment on idol, and he looked happy & relaxed during the interview. (He said something about enjoying the moment and a couple of other comments.)

I don’t think Paige has a fanbase to put her out of the bottom 3, like Cece’s fanbase did. And maybe Cece’s fanbase isn’t going crazy with the compliments of the judges. Arin is definetely a goner, last spot. His fanbase can’t do nothing. The other two on the bottom will be two of these 3: Paige, CeCe and Beatrice. This show will definitely appear to be rigged if we had a sing-off between Paige and CeCe. Oh, well…

I just realized that X-Factor snuck in a theme night this episode: Sob Stories. Idol was always a bit more subtle with its sob stories, i.e. no contestants breaking down on stage and crying. X-Factor is shameless. Of course if this episode gets high ratings, I’m pretty sure Idol will have a new theme night called “personal tragedies I want to shamelessly exploit to gain sympathy, votes and post show charity gigs” and the idol stage will be filled with tears.

lukien

I have to wait till tonight for X Factor to be televised in my country so reading thru most of these comments here … Is it a game of who gives the damnest critics about the show? It seems like almost everyone is complaining about either the contestants, the sob stories, the dresses, the judges, the hosts, the over productions, the producer’s manipulation, the sound, the song choices even the loud audience. It really fascinates me how critical most of you are. I, myself enjoy the show and i think this year is much much better than last year. Some kudos should be given to the XF folks coz they are trying hard to make the best show. Perhaps not to each person’s cup of tea, but they deserve a lil appreciation. Cant wait for Carly’s rendition!

Carly may have a great voice but for some reason, she makes me cringe. Her emotions or facial expressions while she’s singing just seem so fake to me. It’s like she’s acting and not really feeling it. She’s just way too Broadway to be a pop star. How will they market her if she wins?

voicesinmyhead

Ouch to that angry? off key last note by Carly it kind of ruined the whole song for me . I think she’s too young for this competition. She should have waited til 18 and matured more both personally and vocally.

Incipit

Cook was his usual diplomatic self.

Heh. I might have known, wordnerdarchie

I saw the FOX4 reporter angling on Twitter to get David or Andrew to talk to him while he was home, I gather other judge/mentors have enlisted the Justin Bieber kid to champion their contestants in the past – I can’t fault this Hometown reporter guy for being enterprising enough to try for an endorsement from David. I guess.

Of course, that’s not what he got, but it appeared he was trying to make it seem that way on Twitter, posting about the clip on the news, and asking all David Cook fans to vote for Tate. smh.

I like Tate’s voice, I don’t like country music, and I don’t vote on this show…I also don’t think Tate needs that kind of ‘help’…

But that’s Just My Opinion.

MellyPer1692

They could market her like they do Gaga, it worked for her and she’s dramatic as hale.

genius13

Aside from carly and 5th harmony, x-factor is HORRIBLE this year..and im a huge suppoter of x-factor and I DID prefer it to idol but I don’t feel that way at this moment but it mite change. Cece, Paige, Beatrice were absolutely terrible tonight…season 1 was WAAAAAAYY better…we had powerhouse Melanie amaro.. blues rocker Josh…bubbly rachael..folksy Drew..and Marcus canty….this season is lacking in talent AND personalities

Susan

I only catch this show occasionally. What happened to the group that did “Supercali…”? From the reaction that got from the judges, I figured they’d win!

girlygirltoo

They got voted off last week

girlygirltoo

Huh? Carly Rose is on the exact opposite spectrum from Lady Gaga in terms of style.

Not to mention that Lady Gaga is an amazing songwriter and musician. People tend to forget that because of her OTT persona, but she is actually an amazing musician.

Whatiswrongwithus

But lukien…………….THIS SEASON REALLY BLOWS!!! with the exception of Carly and Vino. And even that’s not saying much…..

Whatiswrongwithus

“holy cow, can somebody get frigging Khloe Kardashian off my TV stat? She’s HORRIBLE. Her awkward, clueless hosting makes me want to mount a #BRINGBACKSTEVEJONES campaign. I’m not even exaggerating.Mario is a skilled and professional host, but he has NO chemistry with Khloe. You can almost feel him gritting his teeth standing next to her. She tries WAY too hard. She shouts at people when she asks them questions. When she’s defending the contestants to the judges she comes off like a harpie and phony when she attempts to empathize with the contestants. Her back stage questions boil down to HOW DO YOU FEEL ARE YOU NERVOUS. What a train wreck.”

LMAO!! MJ – i loved this description of Khloe phoney. Thanks, that really made my night after watching this show. I really think Mario will even be much smoother and at ease if they kick Miss Phoney off the show. Such a pity Simon has the hots for her. God knows why. Simon always has weird taste.

And I am with you about that Bring Back Steve Jones campaign!! Just tell me where to sign the petition! LOL

The thing to do with Carly is promote her as a new Charlotte Church. There is a market for that kind of music. It certainly isn’t talked about on this blog, but Josh Groban and Charlotte have done well for themselves. Carly is really, really good, particularly for someone so young. I’m glad that Britney has allowed her to be herself even if her sound is not current. Attempting to mold her into a pop princess would be a travesty. I’m thinking back to last season when Simon had the girls and what a mess he made of Rachel. Of course, I’ve never owned a Josh Groban/Charlotte Church album so I doubt I’d buy Carly’s. But, I really appreciate her talent.

MellyPer1692

I meant that they found a way to market Gaga, who lets face it, is out of the mainstream pop mold in terms of dramatics, presentation etcetera. When she first started out she was definitely the very odd woman out. It’s going to take work and a lot of inspiration to find where Carly Rose fits, but if they think out of the box, it can be done.

iluvai

But I don’t think Carly is a Charlotte Church. Carly is like a baby Barbra Streisand. That’s good tho.

Tonight I had the chance to glimpse the end of the live show (last 20 minutes). Since this was my first XFactor sighting in over a month, I have 3-4 questions: is Simon getting FATTER or simply older? He looked terrible. The 3.5 songs i heard were between mediocre and decent (the little girl at the end). I know the judges pick the songs but really? I mean.. REALLY? Will I ever hear anything else but “Over the Rainbow” or “Wind beneath my Wings”? Dismal choices, overdone. And what the heck is Khloe doing up on that stage? Someone — please — get her OFF. And as far as the younger, female judges: OMG. It’s like watching a high school series on the A&E Channel. No something I would voluntarily watch again. Thanks for your recaps – no need to waste DVR space for this, ahem, “program”. I’d rather watch paint dry or grass grow.

Ratna12

Even though Carly was pretty good, I actually was more impressed with Diamond White. She has the voice and the looks, but I don’t think she will last long here because I think she is competiting with Carly’s voters…which is too bad.

And I feel sorry for Arin to get stucked with the slow songs, I think he would be happier to sing his kind of songs even if the audience won’t vote for him.

Paige, what a mess, and being emotional was no excuse, she should be able to handle it better.

iluvai

Diamond was awesome tonight. Poor Arin. smh. Arin should get to sing what he wants to. They all should get to pick their songs. Love Beatrice. Not sure why. She just has a cool voice.

SapphireBlue9

I don’t think it’s a game but it seems to be agreed on by most that the show is a total mess. Personally, watching the show being so over the top terrible and reading other people’s funny and spot on critique of the entire show is very entertaining. If I were to look at the show seriously for a second, I would say that the XF folks are astonishingly subpar (all around) because they’re really putting out a poor product. There’s no reason that professionals with the budget and experience they have should be collectively putting out such crap. Unless as some have said, the quality doesn’t matter so long as ppl are talking and watching it’s all good. Either way I still appreciate the show for its hilarity.

iluvai

Who knows???

Benjamin Morris

Maybe it’s just me, but I thought Carly made McPhee’s version seem amateurish in retrospect. Though I did think the big notes at the end kind of took away from a really interesting arrangement.

I much prefer Katharine version and Kimberly Locke but Carly did a good job.

Why do they need two hosts? I don’t get it. Mario is just fine with me!

TackyZacky

I think Arin and Cece will be eliminated tomorrow.

I like Fifth Harmony – each member can sing and the girls harmonize very well. They’ll probably last longer than Emblem 3.

Not too crazy about Tate, Vino, and Carly Rose — too bad they’re the top 3!

WestiesRule

They need to keep up with the double eliminations to get this show over with FAST so they can all glide back into obscurity. Demi and Britney are horrible judges. Britney appears to be doing a better job with mentoring but they need to wake her up. She is like a robot more than Khloe. At least Khloe is animated.

kmd23

What was Simon thinking of hiring Britney and Demi as judges? I would not bring back either of them. Then he hires Khloe as a host. Just stick with Mario. LA Reid is the only judge that knows what he is doing and I enjoy watching him mentor.

Are people watching this amateur hour? Honestly, you’re watching this? Pathetic. I just hope it doesn’t ruin the audience wanting to watch AI in January. I can’t believe Fox picked this up. If it had been picked up by ABC or NBC it would be cancelled by now. Vino is hilarious….he’s …. going ….nowhere in the business. Has ANYBODY on the XF done anything of substance music-wise? 5th Harmony is “Sing-off” material.

hcpoirot

Basically, this week Simon want Arin or Diamond to hit bottom 2 and one of them will be going home.

So far, both of them always sing earlier. So one of them or both will probably inj bottom 2 tomorrow.

And he clearly want Tate not to make it in top 2. Tate getting Kris Allen treatment by getting first or second spot each week. (last week Tate sing second)

THis week is boring. Simon should tell the contestants not to cry so much cause its really overkilled it.

But maybe the moms and grannies will eat it all and the rating will rise?

hcpoirot

And if people wonder how come Cece sing better in audition rounds than the live shows, the answer is only one. They fix her vocal with auto tune in audition rounds.

hcpoirot

And if people wonder how come Cece sing better in audition rounds than the live shows, the answer is only one. They fix her vocal with auto tune in audition rounds.

I flipped channels last night and caught her talking over Mario. Man, is she totally obnoxious and wooden.

What was Simon thinking?????? Ugh. Get rid of her. Steve was way better than she ever was (and managed to actually break through the producers in his ears and appear human near the end). Just stick with Mario.

How did she ever get this job?

geekygirl

I’m laughing so hard at this recap, sounds dreadful with all the crying, maybe Xfactor now has Kleenex as a sponser?

And Diamond has done Beyonce, Celine and Whitney… next week Mariah? They trying to tell us something?

I loathe the Kar-cash-ians! So glad I don’t have to watch this asshat sister. Do she and Mario ever say anything to each other? Or do they just talk side by side. Mario must feel like Elvis did when he was forced to sing to a hound dog on Ed Sullivan on live tv. How did I get lumped with her!

I really don’t know if Britney was paying attention to the contestants’ performances because almost all of her comments are positive (it’s her opinion though) and does Simon pay her word for word? because her comments were always too short. And I think Demi’s the first judge to be alone. I mean her contestants will go home first before everyone..but if her millions of fans will help her, they will stay for 2 or 3 weeks more and if they improve too. To Cece, she should really throw all her nerves if she wanna stay longer, she has lots of flats.

Sorry Britney and Demi fans..just my opinion. peace! :)

btw, my faves are Emblem3, Vito, Tate, Carly

Montavilla

5th Harmony is “Sing-off” material.

The last place team on any season of The Sing-Off would mop the floor with Fifth Harmony. Why? Because unlike Simon’s group, any group appearing on TSO can actually do five-part harmony.

Watching back the performances again, I need to add something to what I have written: I WAS blown away by Diamond¨s performance. At her best, she can be fabulous. Vino was so excellent, so excellent. The Wizard Of Oz is one of the most beautiful features of the American culture, and I feel like priviledged person, that I got to wittness “Carly Rose Sonenclair performing Over The Rainbow”. Although I am the ultimate Bea fan, i think, that her performance was REALLY moving, and I believe and hope, that this time America heard and got her.

I actually enjoyed X Factor last season. Last night was the worst ever in what’s turning out to be a horrible trainwreck of a season. A depressing, amateurish hot mess of a show. The hosting is awful (and I’m willing to cut Mario a little bit of slack because I think Khloe is actually making him worse). Britney brings nothing to the table other than a vacant smile and the same repetitive “critiques”. Demi (who I initially liked) is getting worse by the week. Khloe-they got rid of Steve Jones for this?? Everything about this season is a downgrade. The only good thing is the double eliminations-let’s put season two of X Factor US out of its misery ASAP. Simon, you f’d this up. Time to clean house again-lose Britney, Demi and Khloe for a start. I almost want him to bring Dermot over from the UK (he probably should have been the host from day one) but I think Mario will improve once he’s free from Khloe.

I mainly read the recap and watched a few of the videos, but what mainly struck me was the tired song choices. “Wind Beneath My Wings”… seriously? From the girl who sang “Sexy and I know it” at JH. “Hero”, “Over the Rainbow”, “I’ll Stand By You” etc. bring absolutely nothing new to the reality singing show table. I don’t know if they have trouble getting clearence for songs, but they could really do with a jolt in the arm if they want to be ‘relavent’.